Third annual Walton EMC poll picks area’s best holiday light displays

When the customer-owners of Walton EMC were asked to nominate their favorite holiday lighting display, the same name was submitted again and again: Wilson’s Wonderland. In fact, the handiwork of Joe Wilson at his Good Hope home took this year’s voting by a landslide.

“His display is full of cheer and brings absolute delight

to those lucky enough to see it.”

“His display is full of cheer and brings absolute delight to those lucky enough to see it,” wrote Trisha Urrea, summing up the sentiments of many who voted for Wilson’s display to top the Merry and Bright poll conducted by Walton EMC.

This is the third year the electric cooperative has conducted the poll. Members are invited to share the addresses of houses and businesses within the co-op’s 10-county service area that are decorated with lights, lawn ornaments and dazzling displays of holiday cheer.

Wilson gradually accumulated lights, inflatables and other lawn décor before debuting his full-scale wonderland “a couple of years ago.” The Good Hope resident said the display is his way of wishing a “merry Christmas” to his neighbors.

“I do it because I like seeing people smile.”

“I do it because I like seeing people smile and hearing stories about what they like in my display,” he said. “I also decorate because I love seeing the yard so bright.”

Lights come on at dusk daily at Wilson’s Wonderland, 106 Queen’s Lane in the Queen’s Landing subdivision. Visitors are welcome to view the display from their vehicle or park and walk through. Before you go, it’s a good idea to check the Wilson’s Wonderland Facebook page for any schedule changes. The display continues through New Year’s Day.

Wilson’s Wonderland joins Christmas on Dixie in Madison and the Hornsby home, 191 E. Hightower Trail in downtown Social Circle, as a winner of the Merry and Bright poll. Other perennial favorites include the Anderson home, 1360 Cole Springs Road in Bishop, and the Chick Fil A restaurant on Atlanta Highway in Athens.

Listed below are some new favorites that caught the eye of nominators in 2020. All are free to see, so load up the family and head out to take a look at these sparkling, twinkling displays Walton EMC members have created in celebration of the holidays. 

• 701 Woodland Circle, Walnut Grove
• 217 Chad Lane, Loganville
• 2250 Linstone Lane, Grayson
• 1001 Highgrove Drive, Monroe

Inspired? Remember to deck the halls safely

If touring area holiday lighting displays inspires you to decorate your own place, be sure to do it safely to protect your home and those who live there, reminds Walton EMC.

When not used properly, decorations — particularly overloaded circuits — can create safety hazards or cause fires. Begin by reading the manufacturer’s instructions for each item and then follow them.

Check out Walton EMC’s blog for more safe decorating tips. You’ll also find information about energy-saving LED lights.